Many developing countries have common problems concerning
animal welfare, particularly in the livestock slaughter sector. These problems
include handling of livestock, transport, pre-slaughter penning, stunning and
bleeding.

The issues of humane treatment of slaughter animals in these
countries are of growing importance because:

· In recent decades
there has been an increased demand for livestock products, particularly
meats;

· Meat output in developing
countries now considerably exceeds that in developed countries, resulting in
increasing numbers of animals slaughtered;

· Developing countries with a
potential for exporting meat, wherehumane treatment of slaughter animals
is not satisfactorily practised, will have to comply with sanitary and welfare
requirements of importing countries;

· Humane treatment of slaughter
animals not only reduces unnecessary suffering but also reduces loss of quality
and value of meat and animal by-products, thus contributing to food security and
income in most needy countries;

· Many developing countries have
poorly developed and implemented welfare legislation, resulting in harsh
conditions for livestock and excessive suffering.

FAO budgetary resources, mainly designated to maximise
agricultural production in the food, crop and livestock sectors in developing
countries, can provide only limited funds for livestock welfare. Changes in
developing countries towards more humane treatment of slaughter stock must come
about by joint efforts of governments, producers, the meat industry and
desirably also with the help of Non-Government Organizations (NGOs). However,
FAO in cooperation with NGOs could be in a position to co-ordinate these efforts
as well as provide technical advice and assistance.

This publication is provided as a joint effort between FAO and
the NGO Humane Society International (HSI), to offer guidance to animal welfare
personnel, transport operators, farmers and slaughterhouse management etc. in
improving slaughter, livestock productivity and welfare.